Saturday, August 21, 2010

Christian aid agencies suspended from Somalia

According to Ecumenical News International, three Christian Aid agencies have been suspended from Somalia by an Islamic militant group, Al Shabaab. In spite of all three groups insisting that they have not engaged in proselytising, they have been falsely accused of it and are now suspended from Somalia. Jesus said, "You shall know them by their fruit." I think that applies to both those within the Christian faith and those outside of it. Eventually one hopes and prays that the truth will set free those who are enslaved by corrupt and evil tyrants. May God help and have mercy on the people of Somalia who will face further adverse consequences from this oppressive suspension. You can read the article here.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Weird Church Bulletin Announcements

Over the years, I've come across some rather weird and eccentric church bulletin announcements. Recently my wife had some time off and visited a parish, which I won't name, and discovered this announcement:
Health Ministry Notice - "Comfort Boxes"
If you are feeling ill during the service and need a quiet place to rest or wait for an ambulance, a Comfort Box is located in the vestments closet in the Vestry. There is also a Comfort Box located in the entryway to the Parish Hall.
I'm left scratching my head as to what this announcement is actually communicating. First question, which may seem rather ignorant, but here goes: What's a Comfort Box? Second question: Does the announcement imply that Worship Services are bad for your health? I know that Worship Services can be dangerous in that they convict us of sin and work repentance and motivate us to a deeper, risky faith active in love, which leads to a cruciform lifestyle. However, I also believe that Worship Services are good for your health and bestow countless measures of hope, and joy, peace, goodwill, and love to those who attend often. Dear readers, what do you think? I'd appreciate it if you'd leave a comment.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Hiroshima and zero nuclear weapons

Today marks the 65th anniversary of the Americans dropping a nuclear bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The following trailer video emphasises the need to abolish all nuclear weapons. The possibility of terrorist groups accessing nuclear weapons is a scary reality in which we live today. Zero nuclear weapons would bolster the movement towards a more free, environmentally-friendly, and peaceful world for everyone.